Remote Work Travel Checklist 2026

Many countries deny entry if your passport expires within 6 months of your arrival date.

Research visa requirements well in advance. Digital nomad visas now available in 50+ countries.

Some countries require proof of insurance at the border, especially for long-stay visas.

Border agents may ask where you're staying. Have confirmation emails ready.

Many countries require proof of onward travel. One-way entries can be refused.

Useful if border agents question your work status or income source.

Required in some countries if you plan to rent a car or scooter.

Store copies of everything in a secure cloud folder (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox).

Standard holiday insurance doesn't cover working abroad. Get a plan that explicitly covers remote work.

Your laptop is your livelihood. Ensure it's covered for theft, damage, and loss.

Some countries require proof of Yellow Fever, COVID-19, or other vaccinations.

Bring enough medication plus a doctor's letter. Some medications are restricted in certain countries.

Physical card with insurance provider number, embassy contacts, and personal emergency contacts.

Basic kit with painkillers, antiseptic, bandages, rehydration salts, and anti-diarrheal medication.

Ensure your laptop handles your workload and has 8+ hours battery life for coffee-shop sessions.

A quality all-in-one adapter saves carrying multiple plugs. Invest in one with USB-C PD charging.

Never rely on a single internet connection. An eSIM data plan is your backup for hotel Wi-Fi outages.

Non-negotiable for video calls in noisy cafés, coworking spaces, or shared accommodation.

Keeps your phone and small devices charged during long travel days or power outages.

Protects your data on public Wi-Fi and may be needed to access work tools in some countries.

Ergonomics matter when working 8+ hours daily. A portable stand prevents neck and back strain.

Modern laptops lack ports. A hub with HDMI, USB-A, and SD card slots covers most needs.

Ask hosts for Speedtest results. Minimum 10 Mbps download, ideally 50+ Mbps for video work.

A bed and a small table won't cut it for weeks of work. Prioritise a proper desk setup.

Read reviews specifically for noise. Street-facing apartments and party areas are productivity killers.

Even the best apartments have Wi-Fi outages. Know where your nearest coworking space is.

Eating out daily is expensive and unhealthy. A kitchen with basic equipment saves money and time.

Avoid locking into 6-month leases until you've tested a city. Start with 1-month bookings.

Most embassies offer travel registration for citizens abroad. Helps in emergencies and natural disasters.

Use an authenticator app, not SMS (your number may not work abroad). Backup your recovery codes.

Laptop lock, money belt, and a secure daypack for carrying electronics in public.

Save local emergency numbers (police, ambulance, fire) in your phone before arrival.

Prevents your cards being blocked for "suspicious activity" when you use them abroad.

Carry 2+ cards from different networks (Visa + Mastercard) plus a Wise or Revolut travel card.

Saves 2-5% on exchange rates versus traditional bank cards. Essential for frequent travellers.

Keep $200-500 in cash as an emergency reserve. Some countries still rely heavily on cash.

Working abroad can create tax obligations. Understand the 183-day rule and any tax treaties.

Track expenses from day one. Apps like Trail Wallet or Splitwise keep you on budget.